Escape from the realm of the death god and keep running to cross the River of Three Crossings. The roguelike auto-scrolling RPG "Death by Scrolling" is now available.
Note: the original Japanese article can be found at:
https://www.4gamer.net/games/953/G095374/20251029050/
Writer: Katsuura Umi | 2025/10/29 09:28 (UTC)
MicroProse Software has launched distribution of the roguelike vertical-scrolling RPG Death by Scrolling, developed by New Zealand-based Terrible Toybox. The game is priced at 920 yen (tax included). To commemorate its release, it will be available at a 10% discount—828 yen (tax included)—until November 12.
Steam: Death by Scrolling
Death by Scrolling is a roguelike vertical-scrolling RPG in which the protagonist, having fallen into the “Purgatory” of a fiery hell realm due to some unknown cause, must relentlessly ascend an endless series of stages using unique characters with individual powers and abilities.
To escape, the player must simply run north (toward the top of the screen) in order to cross the River Styx. Since crossing requires a high fee, players must collect various items and gold along the way to afford passage on the ferry.
Thumbnail image for Gallery No.003 / Escape from the Hellish Realm filled with demons and cross the River Styx by running endlessly. The roguelike auto-scrolling RPG “Death by Scrolling” is now available Thumbnail image for Gallery No.004 / Escape from the Hellish Realm filled with demons and cross the River Styx by running endlessly. The roguelike auto-scrolling RPG “Death by Scrolling” is now available
The protagonist’s fiery hell realm relentlessly advances from the south (bottom of the screen), so lingering too long or becoming overly engrossed in battles with monsters can quickly cut off escape routes and lead to failure.
Characters can be strengthened by collecting power-up items that appear within stages, purchasing gear at shops, or occasionally defeating the seemingly invincible Death God temporarily.
Thumbnail image for Gallery No.006 / Escape from the Hellish Realm filled with demons and cross the River Styx by running endlessly. The roguelike auto-scrolling RPG “Death by Scrolling” is now available Thumbnail image for Gallery No.007 / Escape from the Hellish Realm filled with demons and cross the River Styx by running endlessly. The roguelike auto-scrolling RPG “Death by Scrolling” is now available
Notably, the game’s design is led by veteran designer Ron Gilbert—renowned for creating Maniac Mansion and Monkey Island in the 1980s, helping build LucasArts Entertainment’s golden era. For MicroProse, which has primarily focused on remakes of older titles recently (related article), this original IP holds significant promise. The game features Japanese interface and subtitles—so those interested are encouraged to give it a try.